Jaguar XE 2020 Review

Jaguar's lineup is brimming with products these days, from coupes to all-electric SUVs. Perhaps lost among the expansion is the 2020 Jaguar XE. This small sedan isn't a big seller, but Jaguar has given it a variety of updates this year in the hopes of boosting its appeal.

Last year, considering the four engines, eight trims and two drivetrains, you could have your XE in 32 different combinations. For the 2020 model year, Jaguar made the selection process easier by slimming down the iterations to just three: the XE S with either rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive and the XE R-Dynamic S AWD. While we'll miss the variety provided by the previous diesel, V6 and V8 engines, the remaining turbocharged inline-four engine is sufficient enough for this class of car.

The XE's visuals also get an update. New front and rear fascias give the XE more detail and make it look bigger. There are many changes to the interior, too. A traditional-style gear-shift lever has replaced the previous rotary transmission knob, and the center console now features a touch-sensitive panel for the climate control. An updated infotainment system is also part of the interior upgrade for 2020.

Is it enough to warrant the purchase of an XE? Maybe. The car's poised and engaging handling, in particular, is among the best you'll find. But at the same time, it'll likely be worth your while to cross-shop some other top rivals including the BMW 3 Series, the Mercedes-Benz A-Class, the Genesis G70 and the Volvo V60.